Homecoming at Dartmouth has always meant many things to many people.
To some it means tradition: the speeches, the parade, the bonfire. To others it means athletic competition: the big game fought on the field of honor, pitching army against army in one of the few remaining acceptable forms of warfare. To some it means parties: music, dancing and, most notably, beer flowing freely from taps.
But to all members of the Dartmouth community, it stands as one of the signal events of their four years of college. Homecoming brings together the old and the new, as alumni -- from the '97s to the oldest living alums -- walk alongside the Class of 2001, the newest members of a community that spans the globe and history.
This evening, as this youngest branch of the College's family tree sweeps through Hanover and runs around their bonfire, the circle will once again be complete. The alumni will watch the '01s prancing in the glow of the Halloween fire, perhaps recalling when they did likewise in days gone by.
As the massive pillar of flame dies to a steaming pile of blackened debris, the music and frivolity will start in the numerous campus party hotspots. The College's students and alumni will cut loose and enjoy the comraderie that makes this one of the College's biggest party weekends.
Tomorrow, as Dartmouth's athletic representatives march against Harvard, Brown and Yale, all eyes will be on these contests for the further glorification of our alma mater.
But as is always the case, good times still come with words of advice. Be careful. Use discretion. Have a great weekend.
Don't get into trouble. We certainly don't want any NEWS on Monday.
